Top 5 Best Dog Ear Infection Treatments (Over the Counter)

The ears of a dog have to be in tiptop condition not only for proper hearing and sense, but for general coordination. When they're infected, the dog's overall health declines. Prescription and antibiotic ear treatments aren't always the best option for various reasons, and having the otic best dog ear infection treatment on hand will help you take care of ear infections quickly.

Dog ear care products and medication don’t need to be complicated or expensive, or come only with prescription from a veterinarian. Some of the best ear infection treatment products for otitis externa or related infections from a few well-known brands are easy to use and can be somewhat affordable. They are also safe for the dog and effective at clearing up the infection quickly.

That said, even with these over-the-counter dog ear infection treatments (particularly those with high concentration of hydrocortisone), it's important that you discuss them with your veterinarian. If you use an unsafe treatment or a product that does not treat the condition as it should, and it continues to get worse, that could cause permanent hearing loss for your pet. Consult your vet about these five best dog ear infection treatment products before using them, and follow the vet's advice for severe cases of ear infections.

* Click on the best ear infection treatment for dogs for more information and prices, or scroll down below for details.

How to Treat Dog Ear Infections

If you're looking for the best dog ear infection treatment, then you already know that your pooch has an infected ear, or any of the other common problems, such dog ear mites or dog ear yeast infection. After consulting with a vet, if prescription dog ear treatment with antibiotics is not the right option (for example, there's antibiotic-resistant bacteria) then using an over-the-counter product can be a great alternative.

On average, it takes anywhere from 7 to 30 days to treat most common ear infections in dogs. When cases are very complicated, the treatment can take several months.

The treatment itself is not very complicated, and if your veterinarian has already done the initial review, all you need to do is follow their plan as well as instructions on the label of the best dog ear infection treatment that you've picked out. If you choose to do your own research, consult your vet about the treatment product that you end up choosing. You can keep the product on hand for use when needed AFTER you've cleared it with your vet. This is especially beneficial for dog owners whose pet suffers from frequent ear infections.

How to Choose the Best Dog Ear Infection Treatment

Unlike with many other dog supplies, there's a clear choice for over-the-counter best dog ear infection treatment, as you'll quickly find out if you do your own research. Studies have shown that hydrocortisone is perfect for clearing up infections in dog's ears, and the most popular product with this type of solution is Zymox from Pet King Brands.

Their two best-selling products, the 1% hydrocrotisone and 0.5% solution, are the first two best dog ear infection treatment choices listed below. The company has recently released their published studies on the effectiveness of hydrocortisone against otitis externa in dogs and related ear infections in dogs. Here they are in PDF:

Granted, these studies were funded by the Pet King Brands themselves, but they're worth looking into as well as considering the fact of their long-standing reputation as the best dog ear infection treatment brand since the late 1990s, according to vets and pet owners.

That said, we've also picked a few alternatives for dog owners who'd like to stay clear of hydrocortisone solution and use something more gentle on their dogs. It appears that these products aren't as effective for dog ear yeast infection treatment, otitis externa, dog ear mites or as general otic dog ear treatment, but they did work for some pet owners.

What Is Hydrocortisone and How Does It Work?

We've talked a lot about hydrocortisone and its effectiveness for dog ear infections, but what exactly is it? Medline has an extensive page on hydrocortisone here, but in short, this is a hormone cortisol supplied as topical medication. It's used both in humans and animals for treating infections, skin irritations, swelling, itching and other skin conditions. For dogs, it also works well as a dog ear mite treatment and dog ear yeast infection treatment.

Zymox did not invent hydrocortisone, but they are the most popular manufacturer of hydrocortisone dog ear infection treatment in the USA, and they have a proprietary formula which they call Zymox LP3 Enzyme System. This formulation works specifically as anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial solution for different skin conditions in dogs.

Hydrocortisone in Zymox, while has no antimicrobial properties in itself, reduces inflammation and swelling in the dog's ear. The proprietary antimicrobial enzyme system then does the rest by destroying the bacteria and clearing up the infection in the ear.

How to Use Dog Ear Infection Treatments?

The process is quick and simple, and it's identical with majority of best dog ear infection treatment products that are in liquid form (wipes will work differently and self-explanatory). Here are the quick steps to follow:

Shake the bottle well.

Apply the solution to uncleared ear.

Generously fill the ear canal (see the photo).

Massage gentle to work it into affected areas.

Remove the excess with a wipe.

The whole procedure doesn't take long, but many dogs will now allow you to drip liquid into their ears that easily. Some help may be needed to hold the pooch. For a complete picture on how to do this, read this guide from VetMed.

For regular dog ear infection cases, do this once a day for 7 days.

For chronic dog ear infection cases, do this once a day for 14 days.

For any severe ear infections in dogs, consult the vet and follow vet's advice.

That said, here are the five best dog ear infection treatments and what you should know about them. Remember to check with your veterinarian before using any of these.

The first best dog ear infection treatment solution is already known to most pet owners as the most effective option out there, with no other brand coming close in comparison. The Pet King Brands’ Zymox Otic Pet Ear Treatment is vet-recommended as the great alternative to prescription antibiotic dog ear treatments, and have been shown in studies to work even more effectively against certain types of ear infections in dogs, particular as a dog ear mite treatment and dog ear yeast treatment. This formula contains natural enzymes and 1.0% hydrocortisone and no antibiotics. It treats and prevents otitis externa and other infections due to viruses, yeasts, bacteria, and antibiotic-resistant microbes. For acute cases, administer this stuff daily for 7 days. For chronic cases, daily treatment for 14 days should do it. Zymox Otic is available in 1.25-oz, 4-oz, and 8-oz sizes.

The Zymox otic dog ear infection treatment has earned its named among pet owners and veterinarians alike, but may not be suitable for every case due to how harsh the 1% hydrocortisone solution can be. Nevertheless, dog ear itching is quite common in dogs that pet owners are in constant search for the perfect and long-lasting solution. They’ve tried everything their vets prescribed and have even resorted to herbal remedies but to no avail. The most that these remedies do is provide temporary relief for a week then the malady recurs again. They heard about Zymox Otic Pet Ear Treatment with Hydrocortisone, started using it on their dogs, and soon enough the itching and other ear-related woes disappeared.

It’s with a feeling of awe that dog owners now recount how well this ear medication has worked for their dog and other pets. That’s understandable, especially that they’ve tried countless drops, pills and shots before which all have failed to treat the irritation in their pet’s ear. With just this best dog ear infection treatment and none of the costly vet bills, their pets’ ears are now pink, healthy, itch-free, and odor-free, and they really can’t be happier for that.

PROS:

Contains natural enzymes and 1.0% hydrocortisone

No antibiotics

Made in USA

Treats and prevents infections due to viruses, yeasts, bacteria and antibiotic-resistant microbes

CONS:

As with any of the best dog ear infection treatment products, their are claims from pet owners who said this did not work to clear up their dog's ear issue

Some buyers were not happy that this product contains hydrocortisone

Dog calming collar reviews from pet owners: “I was hoping this eat drop was everything everyone said it was. Thankfully this drop has been life changing for us. My 1 yr old has had ear infection after ear infection for at least 7 months. Just like.…“

The second best dog ear infection treatment comes from the same company and brand – Zymox. The only difference between this choice and the above mentioned best dog ear infection treatment is the amount of hydrocortisone included, with this option being more gentle and having only 0.5% HC (half of the amount of above mentioned product).

Dogs’ ears are very sensitive and while very prone to infections, sometimes may not require a strong solution with 1% hydrocortisone. Whether there are symptoms of infection or none, it’s a basic hygiene practice to regularly clean dog’s ears to prevent one from developing, but when it's too late, using the best dog ear infection treatment is the only way to solve dog ear yeast infections, itching, ear mites and other problems.

Majority of dog ear cleaners will not solve ear infections in dogs because it's already too late, and a stronger solution is required. Using these products, the liquid is simply squirted into the ear or onto the wipes where you can proceed to clean the dog's ear. This second best dog ear infection treatment is alcohol-free and has a neutral pH. It contains 0.5% hydrocortisone – a strong solution to fight off ear infections in dogs. This active ingredient with anti-adhesive properties has been proven to help ward off germs from attaching to the ear canal surface and is particularly an effective dog ear yeast infection treatment, as well as perfect for treating dog ear mites and itching.

It’s available in several sizes and only small dozes are required. This antiseptic formula does not work for everyday cleaning and should only be used for as a ear infection treatment for dogs. Zymox otic dog ear infection treatment works immediately to loosen gunk in the ears, rid of bacteria and infections, so it helps to have a dog towel handy to wipe off any debris coming out of the dog’s ears.

While some pet owners have claimed that it was a bit late for that, the Zymox has actually worked better than antibiotic dog ear treatments prescribed by veterinarians for many pet owners. So owners have noticed headshaking in their dogs first before they discovered this cleanser. It has a drying and antiseptic quality which aids in the healing of an infected ear.

PROS:

Non-invasive solution

No antibiotics

0.5% Hydrocortisone

Made in USA

Most effective but gentler best dog ear infection treatment for puppies or smaller dogs

CONS:

As with any of the best dog ear infection treatment products, their are claims from pet owners who said this did not work to clear up their dog's ear issue

Some buyers were not happy that this product contains hydrocortisone

Dog calming collar reviews from pet owners: “I applied the drops once a day and after three days, his ears were normal. I continued to apply for three more days, just to kill off any lingering nasties. That was about a month ago, and so far, so good. No more…“

The third best dog ear infection treatment is substantially less popular, mostly due to its solution and the fact that this is a new company that will have difficulty establishing itself alongside an effective treatment like Zymox. The Curaseb ear infection treatment for dogs is formulated as both a cleaner and a remedy for dog ear mites, dog ear yeast infection and itching. This is a much gentler, non-toxic solution that effectively cleanses dirty ear canals to keep them healthy and smelling fresh, with the main active ingredient being 0.1% of ketoconazole. While the company advertises itself as a much cheaper alternative to Zymos (which is true), the ketoconazole simply isn't as effective for treating serious dog ear infections like hydrocortisone is. Nevertheless, some pet owners looking for a gentler solution have found this third best dog ear infection treatment to be perfect.

Delving deeper into this dog ear infection treatment reviews, dog owners and repeat buyers claim that this formula works great on both dogs and cats, and that it's a perfect alternative to a more harsher and expensive option that is Zymox. Curaseb's best dog ear infection treatment has kept their pets safe from ear problems, especially the elderly and frail ones, and have helped to solve already infected areas, according to further reviews. They were surprised at the amount of gunk, puss, wax and filth removed on the very first use of this solution. The dirt removed on succeeding applications were noticeably less which shows how effectively the cleanser works when used regularly.

Dog owners value the wisdom of maintaining ear hygiene in their dogs even long before they notice headshaking, ear-scratching, or other indications that the dog is bothered by something in its ears. A few drops of Curaseb administered as directed would be more than enough to deal with current ear infections in dogs, as well as use it as a regular dog ear yeast infection treatment or as a dog ear mites treatment. That said, this solution pales in comparison to Zymox which was proven to be the most effective treatment thus far, beating out even antibiotic dog ear treatments.

PROS:

Non-toxic

Made with bioactive enzymes

No harsh chemicals

Compatible with all other Zymox ear care products

CONS:

Only cleanses the ears, does not remedy infection

Some disappointed reviews say that this formula left their dogs' sticky and matted

Dog calming collar reviews from pet owners: “Product works great for my dog's ears. His ear had some much debris and gunk in it. After the first use, i could see a noticeable improvement. After 3 uses, his ear looks really clean now! Would recommend this…“

As the fourth best dog ear infection treatment and a good alternative to harsh products like Zymox, this is an all-natural solution for pet owners looking for something gentle and less invasive. You already know how the constant headshaking, foul smell and ghastly ear discharge are obvious giveaways of dog ear infection. Any of these can be an indication of a more serious problem, so it’s unwise to shrug this off as just a minor thing. Here’s where Vet Organics’ EcoEars Dog Ear Infection Formula can help you treat your dog’s condition before it progresses to a full-blown problem. Its ingredients include essential oils and herb extracts, such as organic mullein leaf, witch hazel, and rosemary. It contains no antibiotics, pharmaceuticals, steroids, or synthetic chemicals. EcoEars functions both as an ear cleanser and multi-symptom remedy.

This organic best dog ear infection treatment formula does not only relieve symptoms of dog ear problems – it heals. Tea tree oil extract within the remedy has many proven benefits for dogs. Vet Organics EcoEars Dog Ear Infection Formula has an advantage over prescription drugs because, unlike the latter, it is potent even on drug-resistant microbes. Pet owners expressed how relieved they are that with this best dog ear infection treatment they need not worry about the adverse effects of antibiotics and steroids, especially for long-term treatment.

This solution is so easy to apply and is doable by pet owners in their own home. There won’t be any need for frequent visits to the vet clinic. To many grateful buyers and pet owners, this has put an end to their seemingly endless quest for answers to nasty smell, itchiness and irritation, excessive gunk buildup, inflammation, and a myriad of other ear problems. And since it addresses multiple issues, it easily makes it as their go-to dog ear maintenance and treatment formula.

There are a few reviews from pet owners who say this best dog ear infection treatment irritated their pup's ears

Some reviews note that this solution has a strong smell that the pet owner did not like

Dog calming collar reviews from pet owners: “This is the first time I have ever felt compelled to write a review on a product. It is not that I have never been satisfied. It is just that this journey we have been on for an answer for a ceaseless ear.…“

The last mention on the best dog ear infection treatment list is another completely different solution with the active ingredient being Salicylic Acid (0.2%) and wipes, instead of a liquid solution. After four ear care drops in a row, a dog ear wipe product finally makes it to our list. This best dog ear infection treatment from Pet MD is made in the USA by MD Pet and is recommended as a cleanser, deodorizer and general preventative for ear infections and wax buildup in dogs at least 12 weeks old. A jar of Pet MD Ear Wipes contains 100 pieces of disposable wipes. These wipes are alcohol-free and not medicated. The cleansing, deodorizing and healing effects of these wipes come from aloe vera and eucalyptus oil.

Not all dogs tolerate too well liquid medicines being flushed into their ears, so a lot of dog owners were thrilled to find this last best dog ear infection treatment in the form of pet ear wipes with salicylic acid. Pet MD Ear Wipes for Dogs – Otic Cleanser for Dogs cleans dog ears of any debris and helps dogs have dry and nice-smelling ears. Owners of water-loving dogs say that this is convenient to bring along when they’re going for a swim because it easily wipes off ears clean and dry.

Looking through this dog ear infection treatment reviews it appears that pet owners also learned that when their dog does as much as start scratching its ear or shaking its head, they should immediately put these herb-smelling wipes to action. Thorough cleaning with the Pet MD wipes for 4 or 5 successive days effectively stops infection from developing into full-scale episodes. If there’s anything that they wish improved, it would be the size which they would have preferred to be bigger. Otherwise, it’s a helpful little product as it is and they’d surely buy it again.

PROS:

Made in the USA

Contains 100 disposable wipes

Alcohol-free and not medicated

CONS:

Only for puppies over 12 weeks of age

There are reviews that state that these wipes are over-saturated with solution and very strong smelling

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